Goc returns, Rinne to start vs. Coyotes

Here are some quick notes from Monday’s practice at Centennial Sportsplex:

Center Marcel Goc was back on the ice this morning, after missing the past three games with an upper-body injury. He’s expected to play Tuesday against Phoenix.

Wade Belak (foot) is still not skating, so it appears he’s doubtful for the game against the Coyotes.

Also missing was goalie Dan Ellis, but it wasn’t due to injury or illness. He was at the hospital with his wife, Katie, who is scheduled to give birth to the couple’s second child today. Taking Ellis’ place for Monday’s practice was 42-year-old Brian Dorfman, owner of Zanies comedy club, who played collegiately at Kent State University. He’s filled in a time or two in the past, but today was his first practice this season.

Here’s what the lines looked like, though Preds coach Barry Trotz said afterward he may flip O’Reilly and Goc for Tuesday’s game:

Sullivan-Arnott-Erat

Smithson-Legwand-Ward

Dumont-O’Reilly-Hornqvist

Jones-Goc-Tootoo

Sullivan and Cody Franson were at the points on one power play, working with forwards Arnott, Erat and Hornqvist. Suter and Weber were at the points on the other power-play unit, working with forwards Dumont, O’Reilly and Jones.

Pekka Rinne is scheduled to get the start in goal on Tuesday against Phoenix, after picking up a win over Atlanta on Saturday.